GDC publishes suite of support materials for Enhanced CPD

The General Dental Council (GDC) has published a series of guidance documents and templates for dental professionals, ahead of the launch of enhanced continued professional development (ECPD) next year.

ECPD is the first step in a longer-term reform of CPD to move to a system based on quality of CPD activity rather than quantity. ECPD will empower professionals to embark on life-long learning, which can be embedded into their practice. Patients will also benefit from being treated by dental professionals with up to date knowledge and skills. The changes include the introduction of a personal development plan (PDP) for each member of the dental team. This is a tool that professionals can use to support their CPD and aid further development, whilst also recording the details of CPD activity with corresponding learning outcomes. There are also changes to the number of hours that dental professionals must complete during a cycle and a new requirement to make an annual declaration of the number of CPD hours completed each year. The changes will take place in January 2018 for dentists and in August 2018 for dental care professionals.